Any changes to your breasts can be nerve-racking if you have a history of breast cancer. However, itchy breasts are not typically a cause for concern.

There are lots of reasons why your breasts may feel itchy, including dry skin. Here are some potential issues to consider, along with insights from MyBCTeam members who have faced the same issue.

Dry skin is a common culprit behind itchy skin related to breast cancer, especially for those undergoing chemotherapy. Keeping your skin hydrated with gentle, fragrance-free creams or lotions can ease this discomfort.

🗳️ What’s caused breast itching for you during your breast cancer treatment journey?

Itching was a symptom of breast cancer.

Itching was related to breast cancer treatment.

Itching wasn’t related to breast cancer at all.

I’ve had itching from multiple causes.

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Radiation therapy can also lead to itchiness. Skin in the treated area may become dry and sensitive, and this irritation can cause itching. “I had a breast rash for three years after radiation therapy,” said a MyBCTeam member.

“I’m having rough day. I finished five days of strong radiation, and my boob is sore and hot and itchy.”

— A MyBCTeam Member

Other members of MyBCTeam have reported itching after breast cancer surgeries and procedures, such as port removal. “I just had my chemo port removed the past week and have developed itching all around the port incision, almost like a rash,” shared one member.

Some targeted therapies that focus on proteins that regulate the growth, division, and spread of cancer cells may also trigger dry skin and rashes.

In addition, hormone changes — whether due to hormonal therapies or natural processes like menstruation or menopause — can lead to changes in skin texture and itchiness. Hormonal treatments for breast cancer might have an impact on your skin.

It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s advice on how to care for your skin during and after breast cancer treatment to minimize side effects.

Note that skin side effects depend on your specific treatment. Some types of chemotherapy and targeted treatments may not have these side effects. If you have itching or a rash that’s new, spreading, blistering, painful, or getting worse in any way, tell your doctor.

A few less common types of breast cancer may be associated with itchiness.

For example, Paget’s disease of the breast affects the nipple and often the areola, causing flaky skin, itching, and tingling or burning sensations. This rare breast cancer usually affects people over age 50. Researchers don’t yet know whether Paget’s disease starts in the breast and spreads through milk ducts to the nipple, or begins in the nipple itself.

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is another rare form of breast cancer that can cause changes in the skin of the breast. The American Cancer Society reports that between 1 percent and 5 percent of breast cancer cases are IBC.

In IBC, cancer cells block lymph vessels in the skin, leading to symptoms that include rapid breast swelling and skin changes like warmth, discoloration, thickening, and peau d’orange (orange peel skin). Itching and burning may occur alongside these symptoms.

“I wish someone had told me about itchy breasts as a symptom of cancer. My breast would get so itchy, I’d scratch until I couldn’t stand it.”

— A MyBCTeam Member

Sometimes, IBC is mistaken for a breast infection like mastitis, especially if the person is breastfeeding when symptoms occur. If you’re treated for mastitis, make sure to get reassessed quickly if that treatment doesn’t work.

Some members of MyBCTeam shared their stories of having itchy breasts before getting diagnosed with breast cancer. They urged others not to ignore their symptoms.

“I wish someone had told me about itchy breasts as a symptom of cancer. My breast would get so itchy I’d scratch until I couldn’t stand it. I’ve always had sensitive skin, so I didn’t think much about it,” said one member.

Many skin conditions can lead to itching. These conditions may require the care of a dermatology expert. For instance, atopic dermatitis — the most common form of eczema — is an ongoing skin condition characterized by dryness and itching.

Another form of eczema called contact dermatitis causes skin irritation that stems from an allergic reaction to a substance. Some common allergens that can trigger contact dermatitis include soaps, laundry detergents, preservatives, and perfumes.

In addition, psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes itchy, scaly patches on the skin.

While these skin conditions may not be caused by breast cancer, it’s possible to have one or more of these conditions and cancer at the same time. In addition, a buildup of stress from life with breast cancer can make existing eczema symptoms worse.

“My skin is burning and super itchy where the compression camisole band rubs against my skin. It’s driving me insane.”

— A MyBCTeam Member

Learning ways to manage stress and seeking the guidance of a dermatologist can help you get skin conditions under control.

When To Seek Medical Treatment

Sometimes, you can manage itchy breasts on your own. Other times, you need medical treatment. If itching continues despite at-home remedies, consult your doctor to determine the cause and get treatment.

You should go to a doctor as soon as you can if you notice persistent itching on only one side. You should also get medical care right away if you notice itching along with:

• A new lump in your breast
• Redness or other skin discoloration on your breast
• Scaly nipples
• Nipple discharge
• Peau d’orange (thickening, pits, or bumps in the breast skin)
• Breast swelling
• Breast warmth
• Changes to your nipple, like retracting or inverting
• Lymph node swelling under your arms or around your collarbone

Keeping a Healthy Perspective

Although itchiness can be uncomfortable, it’s typically not a direct sign of breast cancer and might be a temporary side effect of treatment. Discuss any new symptoms, including itching, with your healthcare team to find out whether you need to treat them specifically.

Ultimately, if something doesn’t feel right about your body, visit a healthcare provider who makes you feel like you’re being heard. Everyone experiences symptoms differently, and your intuition can be a powerful tool in protecting your health.

Join the Conversation

On MyBCTeam, people share their experiences with breast cancer, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

What’s your experience with itchy breasts? Let others know in the comments below.